As a footwear expert with years of experience in the industry, I've seen all sorts of methods for cleaning running shoes, but washing them in a washing machine is a popular choice for many due to its convenience. Here's a detailed guide on how to properly wash your running shoes in a washing machine:

1. **Check the Manufacturer's Instructions**: Before you start, always check the label inside your shoes for any specific care instructions provided by the manufacturer. Some shoes are not designed to be machine washed and attempting to do so could damage them.


2. Remove Loose Dirt: Before placing your shoes in the washing machine, it's a good idea to remove any loose dirt or debris. You can do this by tapping the shoes together outside or using a soft brush to gently scrub off the dirt.


3. Use a Protective Enclosure: As you mentioned, if your shoes are machine-washable, it's crucial to place them in some form of protective enclosure to prevent damage to the shoes and the washing machine. A shoe bag, washable laundry bag, or even a thick pillow case can work well for this purpose.


4. Choose the Right Detergent: Use a gentle, sport-specific laundry detergent or deodorizing pellets. These are designed to clean sportswear effectively without causing damage to the materials.


5. Set the Washing Machine: Select a gentle cycle with cold water. Hot water can cause the glue in the shoes to weaken, which could lead to the soles separating from the uppers.


6. Add Extra Load: To help distribute the water and prevent your shoes from getting damaged, add some extra items to the wash. This could be an old towel or other soft items that won't damage the shoes.

7.
Wash: Start the washing machine and let it run through the full cycle. Avoid using fabric softeners or bleach as these can damage the shoes.

8.
Air Dry: Once the wash cycle is complete, remove your shoes and any other items from the washing machine. Place your shoes in a well-ventilated area to air dry. Avoid direct sunlight or heat sources as these can cause the materials to warp or fade.

9.
Deodorize: After washing, it's a good idea to deodorize your shoes. You can do this by sprinkling some baking soda inside the shoes and letting them sit overnight. The baking soda will absorb any remaining odors.

10.
Inspect and Condition: After your shoes are completely dry, inspect them for any signs of damage. If your shoes are made of materials that can benefit from conditioning, such as leather or suede, apply a conditioner to help maintain their quality and appearance.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your running shoes are cleaned effectively and safely in a washing machine, prolonging their lifespan and keeping them in good condition for your next run.

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If your shoes are machine-washable, make sure you put your shoes in some kind of encasing for added protection, like a shoe bag, washable laundry bag, or pillow case. Use a gentle cycle and cold water, wash with deodorizing pellets or sport-specific laundry detergent, and let them air dry.Mar 16, 2016read more >>